Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB)-based demand-side management for buildings, virtual power plants and prosumers

The main objective of this paper is to present a new and cost-effective ICT tool that can lead to efficient energy management in buildings and optimal operation of electricity networks with increased share of Renewable Energy Sources (RES). The new ICT infrastructure is based on the Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) standard and its interoperability with smart metering technology, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) and Building Automation Systems (BAS). The main idea involves the attachment of a DAB receiver to electric devices (from small household appliances up to EVs), and the development of proper DAB interfaces and gateways to building automation systems, in order to enable DAB-based switching of electric loads and implementation of the functionalities for smart metering systems and building automation. The first, necessary step towards the realization of the new technology is the development of a DAB communication protocol.